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Published at 6th Nov 2018
Modified at 4th Jan 2023
Can Opal Jewelry get wet? (Care and maintenance facts)
Opal jewelry
is a type of jewelry that gives glamour to the wearer, and can be worn with
almost any type of clothing as it blends well with any mixing and matching of
clothes. With that in
mind, this precious stone should be cared for in order to maintain
its quality and glamour as well as maintain its lasting usage. Here are some of
the facts and figures in order to have proper care and maintenance of opal:
Opal and Water
Opal and water are
almost synonymous to each other because opal contains between 3-30% water. It can
also absorb water so essentially it can get wet when submerged in water or in
any liquid it comes in contact with. In order to minimize residues on your opal
jewelry, it is strongly recommended to remove them from your body whenever you perform
any activity that involves water/liquid such as taking a shower or washing your
hands. Actual observations have also shown that human sweat whenever it gets in contact with Opal can leave residues on the
opal. This residue can normally be whipped off the Opal with a damp cloth.
Opal doublets and triplets, which are made when slices of Opal are glued together, should avoid any water contact. The water can in some cases cause the glue to deteriorate. The modern glues used in Opal doublets and triplets are very durable and should be ok with small to moderate water exposure.
Opal and Temperature Changes
The opal in itself is sensitive to sudden changes in temperature. Any drastic change will have an effect on the water content within the opal and could cause micro cracks along its sides. These micro-cracks may not be visible right away but in the long run, it could cause deterioration of the stone and eventually ruin the opal jewelry sooner or later. With this situation, it is advisable not to wear your opal jewelry in certain seasons that normally have extreme temperatures such as during winter. It may seem very tempting to wear them but it is better to be wise than to regret later.
Opal and Physical Damage
Opal jewelry is susceptible to physical damages as well. Ensure to avoid dropping the opal on a hard surface, or getting hit on a solid object such as concrete walls, door knobs, and railings, among others. Doing so will definitely cause damage and eventual breakage in the long run.
Always remember Opal jewelry is precious and considered to be fine jewelry. This should be well taken care of to ensure lasting use and consistent glamor.
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